A 50-man provisional group gathered in Kepmton Park for trials over the weekend. Following a practice match and several drills, a final 28-man squad was chosen.

Craven Week unofficial champions the Blue Bulls have the most representatives in the team with nine players selected. Blue Bulls prop Pierre Schoeman was named the captain and Baby Bok and WP flyhalf Handre Pollard the vice-captain.

Saru convener of selectors Peter Jooste was delighted with the process of selecting the final SA Schools squad.

‘These players were selected following their consistent good performances during the U18 Craven Week. The final selection was very difficult because we had so many good players in the enlarged group of 50 players,’ said Jooste.

‘The selectors are therefore satisfied that we have selected the best possible SA Schools squad. They will now get the chance to show their ability against international opposition and to play themselves into contention for call-up to the SA U20 trials which will start in November.’

South Africa’s best schoolboy players will be in action in three internationals against England, Wales and France (all U18 teams).